Top 10 cities in DR Congo worth visiting

DR Congo is huge, messy, musical and magnificently unpredictable. In 2025 the country is tip‑toeing towards a tourism boom: new cultural festivals, lakefront lodges, improved security in pockets and a push from Kinshasa’s national tourism board to showcase “Congo Is Possible.” 

With the Congolese franc hovering around 2300 CDF to $1 (Nov 2025), this guide translates prices into both currencies.

Below you’ll find ten cities that are worth your francs plus current cost ranges and on‑the‑ground tips.

Security note: Eastern DR Congo remains volatile.

The UK Foreign Office reported protests and roadblocks in Kinshasa in January and September 2025, and Human Rights Watch documented that the M23 rebel group captured Goma and Bukavu in 2025.

Conditions shift quickly always check the latest advice and defer travel if violence flares.

1. Kinshasa

Kinshasa doesn’t just hum it drums. The Kwafrika Travel guide describes the capital as a “pulsating metropolis” where the Congo River promenade meets art studios and day trips to Zongo Falls. Expect rumba, contemporary galleries and a nightlife that runs on its own time.

Price check & tip: 

A local lunch or street grill generally runs US$6–12 / 13 800–27 600 CDF; dinner for two in a mid‑range restaurant sits around US$70–150 / 161 000–345 000 CDF. High‑end spots can double those prices, so check menus first. ATMs are unreliable carry cash and smaller notes.Looking for Kin’s rhythm? Check out a 2025 vlog from a local musician exploring the riverfront bars on YouTube.

2. Lubumbashi

Lubumbashi built its fortune on copper yet retains a surprisingly leafy, European feel. Kwafrika Travel recommends touring the National Museum, botanical garden and zoo, or diving into the city’s colonial architecture before sampling its vibrant nightlife.

Price check & tip: Expect a budget lunch for US$10–15 / 23 000–34 500 CDF and dinner for two around US$70–100 / 161 000–230 000 CDF.

Hotels range from US$60–120 / 138 000–276 000 CDF depending on location. Try local dishes like nyama na fufu (grilled meat with cassava paste); markets often require haggling, so offer half the asking price and smile.Want a preview? See a 2025 walking tour through the city’s markets on YouTube.

3. Goma

Few places pack adrenaline like Goma. Sitting between Mount Nyiragongo and Lake Kivu, it tempts travellers with crater hikes, boat trips to Tchegera Island and lively markets.

Amahoro Tours notes that tourism has improved thanks to better security, allowing visitors to enjoy gorilla treks and lakeside nightlife.

Price check & tip: Fast‑food meals cost about US$8–12 / 18 400–27 600 CDF; cappuccinos are around US$3.50 / 8 050 CDF; hotels average US$60–100 / 138 000–230 000 CDF. Keep extra cash for unexpected “fees.” Security can deteriorate quickly consult Virunga National Park and local operators before arranging hikes.

4. Bukavu

Lush hills, colonial villas and the gateway to Kahuzi‑Biega National Park make Bukavu irresistible. The Kwafrika guide highlights gorilla treks, visits to Idjwi Island and strolls along the lake.

Instagram shots Visit congo

Price check & tip: A budget meal costs US$7–10 / 16 100–23 000 CDF; dinner for two runs around US$70–90 / 161 000–207 000 CDF. Lodging near the lake averages US$60–120 / 138 000–276 000 CDF.

For gorilla permits, book through reputable operators and be prepared for muddy hikes. Due to recent M23 occupation, monitor safety updates and avoid unnecessary travel.

Sneak a look at a 2025 gorilla‑trek vlog filmed near Bukavu on YouTube.

5. Kisangani

Kisangani, once known as Stanleyville, thrives on the Congo River. Kwafrika Travel suggests watching the Wagenia fishermen haul fish from Boyoma Falls and exploring colonial landmarks.

The river port buzzes with pirogues and palm‑studded islands.

Price check & tip: Expect lunch for US$8–12 / 18 400–27 600 CDF and dinner for two at US$70–80 / 161 000–184 000 CDF.

Mid‑range hotels run US$50–90 / 115 000–207 000 CDF. Hire a boatman to see Boyoma Falls at dawn when the fishermen’s traditional fish traps are most active.Get a river‑level glimpse from a recent traveller’s vlog on YouTube.

6. Matadi

DR Congo’s main Atlantic port hugs steep hills where colonial houses peer over the Congo River. Visitors can walk across the legendary Matadi Bridge, explore the port and admire colonial‑era buildings

Price check & tip: Fast‑food meals average US$9–13 / 20 700–29 900 CDF; cappuccinos are about US$4.30 / 9 890 CDF and mid‑range hotels cost US$80–170 / 184 000–391 000 CDF. Watch your step hills are steep and sidewalks uneven. Crossing the bridge may require police permission; carry ID.Check out a 2025 port‑city walk in Matadi on YouTube.

7. Kolwezi

Kolwezi in Lualaba province is both a cobalt hub and a jumping‑off point for adventures. The Kwafrika guide invites travellers to tour cobalt and copper mines, visit cooperatives and explore nearby nature reserves.

Price check & tip: A typical lunch costs US$10–15 / 23 000–34 500 CDF, and dinner for two sits around US$70–80 / 161 000–184 000 CDF. Hotels range between US$60–120 / 138 000–276 000 CDF. Arrange mine tours with trusted operators; protective clothing may be provided but wear sturdy shoes.A 2025 miner’s‑town travel video gives a peek into Kolwezi life on YouTube.

8. Likasi

Likasi feels more sedate than its mining neighbours. Kwafrika Travel suggests visiting the historic Panda Mine, strolling through leafy parks and browsing artisanal markets.

Price check & tip: Meals cost US$10–15 / 23 000–34 500 CDF; dinner for two is about US$70 / 161 000 CDF.

Accommodation runs US$50–100 / 115 000–230 000 CDF. For crafts, visit the central market early when artisans set up stalls.Watch a 2025 Likasi street walk on YouTube.

9. Kalemie

Set on the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika, Kalemie offers white‑sand beaches, fishing villages and a laid‑back museum. Kwafrika Travel recommends boating, exploring the museum and hiking the Marungu Highlands.

Price check & tip: Lunch by the lake costs about US$9–14 / 20 700–32 200 CDF; dinner for two is around US$70 / 161 000 CDF. Accommodation typically falls between US$50–110 / 115 000–253 000 CDF.

Boat schedules are flexible confirm departures a day ahead and expect delays if the lake is rough.See what Kalemie looks like today in a 2025 lake‑town vlog on YouTube.

10. Kananga

In the central Kasaï region, Kananga pulses with Luba traditions. According to Kwafrika Travel, visitors can attend traditional dance festivals, meet artisans and explore spiritual sites around the Lulua River and Nganza Rock.

Price check & tip: 

Expect lunches for US$8–12 / 18 400–27 600 CDF and dinner for two at US$70–80 / 161 000–184 000 CDF.

Hotels cost US$40–80 / 92 000–184 000 CDF. Always ask permission before photographing ceremonies or sacred sites; a small tip is appreciated.Experience Kananga’s street culture through a 2025 festival video on YouTube.

These ten cities reveal DR Congo’s geographic and cultural breadth, from Kinshasa’s frenetic energy to Kalemie’s tranquil beaches. Prices remain reasonable by global standards, though infrastructure can be patchy carry cash, be patient and always check current security advisories. With the right planning, 2025 could be the year Congo surprises you.